Venetian blinds –whether they be finished timber, aluminium, polystyrene or PVC– add a touch of class to any interior style along with providing sun protection and privacy. To keep up their visual appeal and functionality, venetian blinds have a few cleaning and maintenance requirements.
While venetian blinds can be made from different materials, wooden or timber is by far the most popular with faux wood in close succession. When it comes to cleaning, the process should effectively remove dust and dirt build-up while acting to protect the integrity of the material. Regularly cleaning your blinds will ensure that you don’t ruin your window coverings and that they stay looking great for years to come.
Avoid using harsh substances
Timber venetian blinds should never be cleaned with harsh detergents or chemicals, as this can damage the finish. It’s also best to avoid excess water and liquid-based cleaning products, as the wood is prone to warping if liquid is absorbed.
Also ensure the product you choose to use on your blinds doesn’t cause discoloration of the wood; you can test this by applying the product to only a tiny corner of a blind before using to clean the full set. Using products that are specifically intended for use on wood is generally your best bet, along with using a microfiber or similar soft, lint free cloth for application and cleaning.
The easiest care is regular care
As with most things, your blinds will benefit from regular cleaning so dirt doesn’t build up and require a more intensive cleaning treatment. You can do this using a feather duster or gentle cloth to dust them as needed. Approximately once a week is sufficient, unless you live in an area with a lot of dust or dirt, in which case you’ll need to clean more frequently.
To clean your blinds, lay the slats flat and use downward strokes to remove dust. Then turn the slats the other way and clean that side, going with the direction and grain of the slats to avoid damaging your shades. An alternative to using a duster or cloth is to use a vacuum with a soft bristle attachment.
Remove stubborn stains
For blinds that need more cleaning – for example, if there is a stain or if grime has built up beyond the capabilities of a duster – you have a couple of timber safe cleaning options.
- Use a paper towel to gently “scrape” the stain off with no added liquid and without applying enough pressure to damage the blinds. If this doesn’t work, using a polish or cleaner specifically for wood will generally do the trick. Spray or apply a small amount and let it set before using a damp cloth to wipe it away. Follow with a dry cloth to make sure all moisture is removed to prevent damage to the blinds and to avoid attracting dust.
- For a more natural cleaning solution, juicing a lemon and mixing it with alcohol is a great DIY cleaner for wood blinds that won’t discolor or otherwise damage your timber venetian blinds. Use a soft bristle paint brush with a small amount of the lemon-alcohol mixture and dab on the slats. Use a dry cloth to wipe the blinds down and ensure dryness after application.
Whenever you are cleaning your timber venetian blinds, make sure to clean each slat separately and completely.
By creating a regular blind cleaning schedule, you’ll be able to have your blinds looking like a brilliant and classy finish to your living space for a very long time.
Vision Décor are experts at all things interior décor – from timber and aluminium venetian blinds to café blinds, wallpaper, and laminate flooring, we’re here to help make your home look and feel great. Come visit our showroom or get in touch today to take your home to the next level.